Filthy python needs a bath.

[jennisof]

My cleaning tool has developed a smattering of black mold on the inside of the tubes.

1. Is this potentially hazardous to my fish?
2. If it is, how is it cleanable? Or should i just trash the tubes and buy new?

Thanks

[TaTeR ToT]

you can either buy new tubes, or you can soak the entire python in a 50/50 vinegar/water solution, soak it for 24 hours, and then flush it by running fresh water through it for about 15 minutes.

[TaTeR ToT]

btw, new tubes at a lfs are going to run you almost as much as a new 25' python at walmart.

new tubes from homedepot or lowes are also going to run ~$12-15, a new python is only $25-30 at walmart.

soaking it in vinegar and water is the best bet cost wise.
and yes, i would think black mold could be very hazardous to you fish.

[peterp63]

I have this "black mold", or whatever it is, in most of my pythons and tubing that is used for water changes. I've never tried to clean it because it looked too difficult, though I don't think my fish are suffering from it either. I could be wrong about the hazards though...

[wesleydnunder]

Not sure it's mold... may be an algae. I clean my python tube out with bleach. A cup of bleach into a 5 gal bucket of water, put the end of the tube in the bucket, syphon the tube full, let sit for 30 min or so then rinse.

Mark

[FIREFISH]

+1 with wesleydnunder.

FF

[eklikewhoa]

I always thought it was algae...

I would step on mine and it would break off after letting it sit in the sun... then run water though it to flush it. Bleach soak or vinegar works too.

[PhishPhreek]

Has anyone tried hydrogenperoxide ?

[Somefishguy]

If its is algae then hydrogen peroxide should work well. Ive used it to clean both live and fake plants, rocks and driftwood. Just mix it with water and and rinse it afterward... The algae should turn brown/red in a day or two and fall off easily after.